Tokachidake Onsen (十勝岳温泉)

Tokachidake Onsen: Hokkaido’s “Cloud-Top” Spa and the Volcanic Soul of central Japan

Tokachidake Onsen is a destination of soaring altitudes and breathtaking vistas. Perched at an elevation of 1,280 meters on the slopes of the active Mount Tokachi, it is the highest hot spring resort in Hokkaido. Known as the “Onsen Above the Clouds,” this thermal outpost offers an experience defined by extreme contrasts—where the intense heat of the earth meets the sub-arctic chill of the alpine air. Located near the scenic town of Furano, Tokachidake is a world of jagged peaks, smoking craters, and a “Sea of Clouds” (Unkai) that frequently blankets the valley below. Whether you are a mountain climber seeking a restorative soak after conquering the 2,077-meter summit, a photographer capturing the first autumn colors in Japan, or a traveler wanting to soak under a sky filled with millions of stars, Tokachidake provides a profound sense of the sublime.

Key Information

The Healing Waters: Volcanic Magma and “Earth-Toned” Potency

The springs of Tokachidake are some of the most geologically active in the country, fueled by the Nukkakushi Crater. Scientifically, the area offers two main types of water. The first is an acidic aluminum sulfate spring, characterized by its slightly stinging sensation and strong sterilizing power, making it a favorite for treating bacterial skin conditions. The second is an iron-rich chloride spring, which gushes forth clear but turns a deep reddish-brown (Akayu) upon contact with the air. These iron waters are known as “Thermal Packs” because they improve blood flow and retain body heat long after exiting the bath. The water gushes at temperatures exceeding 50°C and is delivered in its purest “Gensen Kakenagashi” form, allowing bathers to feel the raw chemical pulse of the living volcano.

Top Recommended Ryokans & Stays

• Yumoto Ryounkaku (The Highest Peak): The oldest and highest inn in the resort. Its open-air baths are carved into the mountain edge, providing a 180-degree view of the Furano Basin and the cliffs of the Tokachi range. It is the ultimate spot for viewing the “Sea of Clouds.”
• Tokachidake Onsen Kamihorosou (Heritage/Nature): A welcoming lodge known for its all-wood interior and its large communal baths. It features a private trailhead for hikers and serves excellent local pork and vegetable cuisine from Kamifurano.
• Shiyuirin (Secluded Retreat): Formerly a mountain lodge, this facility offers a more quiet, intimate atmosphere and is highly regarded for its 100% natural sulfur baths and proximity to the Nukkakushi trailhead.
• Furano Hotel (Nearby Luxury): Located about 40 minutes away in the valley, this serves as an ultra-luxury alternative for those who want five-star service with day-trip access to the alpine springs.
• La Vista Furano Hills (Modern Base): A stylish, modern hotel in central Furano that uses the same volcanic mineral water, providing an excellent base for those who want urban amenities and night-time onsen.

Must-Visit Public Baths (Soto-yu)

Tokachidake is a quiet alpine enclave where “Soto-yu” activities are integrated into the mountain lodges. Ryounkaku offers a famous day-trip pass for approximately 1,000 yen, which is a mandatory experience for anyone visiting the area. A short drive down the mountain leads to the legendary Fukiage Onsen. Fukiage features a completely wild, free-to-use outdoor bath called “Fukiage Rotenburo,” located in the forest. It gained national fame from the drama “Kita no Kuni Kara” and offers a raw, no-frills experience of bathing in nature. Note: Swimsuits are allowed at the wild Fukiage bath but not at the traditional ryokans.

Walking Guide & Scenic Spots

Active exploration is the hallmark of a Tokachidake visit. Start with the Mount Tokachi Trail; the trailhead starts right at the ryokan parking lot, leading to the steaming crater. For casual walkers, the Bogakudai Observation Deck is a must-visit, offering a vast lava-field landscape that feels like another planet. In late September, the area becomes a photographer’s dream as it is one of the first places in Japan to experience autumn foliage. For a dramatic sight, visit the Ansei Crater, where you can see the earth venting white smoke against the stark volcanic rocks. In winter, the Kamifurano Snow Park nearby offers cross-country skiing with the best mountain backdrop in Hokkaido.

Local Gastronomy & Souvenirs

The culinary pride of Kamifurano is Lavender-fed Pork (Kamifu Pork). This meat is prized for its tenderness and clean flavor; try it as Tonkatsu or grilled over charcoal. Furano is also the “Wine Capital of the North,” and local ryokans serve exclusive Furano Wine and Furano Cheese. For souvenirs, look for Lavender-scented goods, local mountain honey, and Tokachidake Volcanic Ash Soap. The nearby Roadside Station “Oka-no-kura” in Biei also sells world-class breads made from local Biei wheat.

Cultural & Historical Context

The modern history of the onsen began in the Taisho era (1912-1926), but the volcano has long defined the life of central Hokkaido. The mountain group is a constant reminder of nature’s power; the 1926 eruption caused a massive mudflow that reshaped the Biei river valley and created the “White Birch Corridor.” Today, the town manages a unique Volcano Meister program, educating visitors on how the community